Tag: Mohammad Rizwan

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has raised doubts over the status of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as “key players” for the national side, suggesting that others in the current setup are more deserving of the title.

Babar and Rizwan endured a poor run in the recently concluded three-match ODI series against the West Indies, while both remain out of Pakistan’s T20I plans since December 2024.

Babar managed scores of 47, 0, and 9 across the three games, while Rizwan posted 53, 16, and 0.

Speaking on a local YouTube channel, Mohammad Hafeez argued that being labelled a key player requires winning matches for the team, something he feels Babar and Rizwan have failed to deliver in recent years.

“Calling them key players would be wrong and unfair. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are not Pakistan cricket’s key players at the moment. Key players are those who win matches for Pakistan,” said Hafeez.

“If we look at the past year and a half to two years, the players showing consistent performance are Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, and Hasan Nawaz.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The former all-rounder went on to question whether Babar and Rizwan even justify their spots in the XI at present.

“I think Babar and Rizwan need to be concerned about their positions in the team,” said Mohammad Hafeez.

“They need to prove themselves as good players first; key players come later. Both were good in the past, but now they are not delivering results.”

Hafeez extended his criticism to Pakistan’s leading pacers as well, insisting Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi have also fallen short of delivering match-winning contributions.

He concluded by stressing that Pakistan cricket should focus less on reputation and more on building a core of consistent performers for the next decade.

“We should focus on players who can contribute for the next 10–15 years. Our media hypes and criticises the wrong people; we need to talk about those who are actually performing,” he added.

READ: Faisal Akram’s five-fer in vain as Perth Scorchers edge past Pakistan Shaheens

TRINIDAD: Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted his side fell short with the bat after suffering a five-wicket defeat to West Indies in the second ODI at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba on Sunday.

The rain-affected match saw West Indies chase a revised target of 181 in 35 overs after Pakistan posted 171-7 in 37 overs.

Roston Chase (49* off 47) and Justin Greaves (26 off 31) put on an unbroken 73-run stand for the sixth wicket to take the hosts over the line in 33.2 overs and level the three-match series 1-1.

During the post-match conference, Mohammad Rizwan explained that the surface made it difficult for the batters to settle in.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“We made 180, thought 200 was possible. The pitch was difficult, with both spin and seam. The way Chase and Rutherford played changed the momentum,” he said.

Mohammad Rizwan also addressed the issue of the fifth bowler after part-timers Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha went for runs.

“They went for runs, but in the last year, Ayub and Salman have bowled well. You want options with the ball,” he added.

“Ayub did well in the T20s but didn’t do it today; it happens. The forecast changed today and was unpredictable. We’ll have to factor that in during the last game.”

The deciding third ODI will be played at the same venue on Tuesday.

READ: Sourav Ganguly comments on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma retirement speculation

TRINIDAD: Pakistan ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan has expressed confidence in his side’s preparations ahead of the three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting Friday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

In a video message shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Rizwan stressed the importance of making a strong start, highlighting the blend of youth and experience in the squad.

“We are looking to put our best foot forward in the ODI format, and this away series in tough conditions promises to be a fine challenge for our young squad,” Rizwan said.

“We have some exciting players like Sufyan Moqim and Hassan Nawaz, who are eager to prove their mettle in 50-over cricket.”

He also acknowledged the difficulty of facing the West Indies on their own turf, but expressed faith in his team.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Playing West Indies in their backyard is never easy. With the help of the Almighty, we will look to express ourselves with both bat and ball to clinch the series,” Mohammad Rizwan said.

“They have some exciting players too, which will add to the competitiveness of the matches.”

The series opener will be a day-night fixture, starting at 2:00 pm local time (11:00 pm Pakistan time), while the remaining two games will be day matches, beginning at 9:30 am local time (6:30 am Pakistan time).

The Brian Lara Cricket Academy will be hosting only its second men’s ODI, the first being West Indies vs India in 2023.

Pakistan ODI squad for West Indies series

Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem.

READ: PCB announces Haider Ali’s replacement in Pakistan Shaheens Squad for Top End T20 Series

DHAKA: Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha has thrown his support behind senior batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, even as the duo miss out on the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh.

Addressing the media in Dhaka on Saturday, ahead of the series opener on July 20, Salman said the squad is well-prepared and keen to play aggressive cricket in familiar subcontinental conditions.

“We’re under no pressure. The focus is on playing good cricket and entertaining the crowd here in Bangladesh,” he said.

Pakistan will face the hosts on July 20, 22, and 24 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, with all matches scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM (PST).

While acknowledging Bangladesh’s strength at home, Salman remained confident in Pakistan’s game plan.

“They’re a competitive side and tough to beat at home, but we’re also ready to play bold, attacking cricket,” he stated.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Salman Ali Agha also highlighted the team’s preparation, including a tailored training camp in Karachi with pitches designed to mimic Dhaka conditions.

“Understanding conditions is crucial. Our BPL experience and camp preparation will help us adapt better to match situations,” he added.

The captain also weighed in on the absence of experienced campaigners Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, saying their contributions to Pakistan cricket remain invaluable.

“Babar and Rizwan are world-class players and have done wonders for Pakistan. But T20 cricket evolves quickly, and our current squad reflects the style we want to play right now. Whoever fits that brand can be part of the team,” he added.

Meanwhile, the series trophy was unveiled in a ceremony at a local hotel, with both captains, Salman and Liton Das, posing for photos ahead of the contest.

The upcoming series marks the second T20I face-off between Pakistan and Bangladesh this year. The Green Shirts had completed a 3-0 sweep in the previous encounter at home in May.

READ: Andre Russell reflects on career highlight ahead of retirement

LAHORE: Aqib Javed, the director of the High Performance Centre, has opened up on his recent conversations with senior batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan during the Skills Development Camp.

While speaking to the media on the final day of the camp, Aqib revealed that honest feedback was shared with both star players on how to raise their game.

He further stated that the focus wasn’t just on technical work, but also on clarity and self-assessment.

“We worked with both Babar and Rizwan and had honest discussions with them on how to enhance their game,” Aaqib said.

“You can’t fix everything in six days, but you can certainly point out areas that need work and get players thinking about where they stand.”

Aqib Javed explained that the initial focus was on helping players build connections with new coaches, while the latter stages catered to preparations for the Shaheens’ upcoming tour of Australia and the South Africa Test series.

“This was about keeping players engaged in the off-season, maintaining intensity, and getting them used to early morning routines again. Camps like this are essential if we want our players ready for the challenges ahead,” he said.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He also provided updates on key pacers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr., confirming that both have recovered from injuries and bowled regularly during the camp.

“Naseem had been struggling earlier, but now he’s back bowling full tilt. Wasim Jr. has also returned to rhythm,” he added.

When asked about the team’s overall preparation for major assignments like the ACC Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, he stated that Pakistan needs to aim for high-scoring, aggressive cricket.

“To win in modern-day white-ball cricket, you need to go past 200 regularly. We’re not looking at seniority—we’re looking at who fits the role best,” he said.

With two international series and a packed calendar ahead, Aqib reiterated that no spot is guaranteed and performance will be the only criterion.

“This camp was the beginning,” he concluded. “Now the real test is how much the players apply what they’ve been told.”

READ: Pakistan crowned champions of Asian Youth Girls Netball Championship 2025

The eagerly awaited Big Bash League (BBL) 15 fixtures have been announced, featuring Pakistan’s star trio Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan.

BBL 15 is set to commence from December 14 to January 25, 2026, with a total of 44 games played across various venues in Australia. The highlight of this year’s edition is Pakistan’s ace players who are set to make their debut.

Babar Azam Debut 

One of the most notable aspects of BBL 15 will be the debut of Pakistan’s ace batter, Babar Azam, who will be playing for the Sydney Sixers in the opening match of the tournament.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by KFC Big Bash League (@bbl)

The season opener will be played between the two most successful teams of the tournament, the Sydney Sixers and the Perth Scorchers, on December 14 at Optus Stadium in Perth.

Renegades vs Heat clash ft Rizwan, Shaheen

The Melbourne Renegades will kick off their BBL 15 campaign against Brisbane Heat on December 15, with Pakistan’s pacer Shaheen Afridi and wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan making their tournament debuts.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The Melbourne Renegades will begin their tournament with two home matches at Geelong

Australia Test Players Return After Ashes

With the much-anticipated Ashes series concluding on January 8, several Australian Test players may return to action, depending on their availability.

Those players currently part of the Test squad and having BBL contracts include Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Beau Webster, Josh Inglis, Steve Smith, and Scott Boland.

The BBL franchises are permitted to select a maximum of two Cricket Australia-contracted players for the supplementary list, subject to their availability.

Derbies And Rivalries

The BBL 15 fixtures are packed with exciting rivalries, starting with a rematch of last year’s final between the Sydney Thunder and the Hobart Hurricanes on December 16.

The Melbourne derbies, featuring the Renegades and Stars, will take place on January 4 and 10 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Marvel Stadium, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Sydney Smash, a high-stakes encounter between Thunder and Sixers, is scheduled to take place on December 20 at the ENGIE Stadium, with the second fixture set for January 16 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

READ: Pakistan Champions unveil new jersey for WCL 2025

Melbourne Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten has described the signing of Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as a “massive win” for the franchise in the BBL 15 overseas draft.

Speaking on a recent podcast, Rosengarten couldn’t hide his delight at bringing one of world cricket’s most reliable performers into the Renegades’ setup.

“To bring in a player of Mohammad Rizwan’s calibre at Pick 3 is a massive win for us,” Rosengarten said.

“He’s one of the best in the world—reliable, experienced, and a calm presence both on and off the field.

“He has successfully led teams and will be a great fit for the squad we’re building.”

Rosengarten underlined Rizwan’s versatility and temperament as key assets that will complement the squad being assembled for the upcoming season.

“What makes Mohammad Rizwan so valuable is his ability to anchor an innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking,” he added.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“With players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Brown, and Tim Seifert around him, we believe our top order could be one of the most exciting in the competition.”

While Rizwan brings proven stability at the top, his skill behind the stumps also offers the Renegades flexibility with wicketkeeping duties, given the presence of New Zealand’s Seifert in the squad.

“Rizwan is also a world-class wicketkeeper, which gives us options behind the stumps. Both he and Tim will bring great energy to the field,” he further stated.

The 33-year-old batter will be making his BBL debut, having previously starred in other major leagues, including the CPL.

In a video shared by the Melbourne Renegades, Mohammad Rizwan sent a heartfelt message to his new fans.

“Assalam-u-alaikum and good morning, Australia. It’s a great honour to join the Melbourne Renegades. I have always admired how they play with heart,” he said.

“I’m very excited to wear the No.16 jersey, meet the passionate Melbourne fans and give my very best. Inshallah. Thank you.”

READ: Melbourne Stars GM eyes Haris Rauf vs Babar Azam showdown in BBL 15

Pakistan One Day International (ODI) captain Mohammad Rizwan has shared his thoughts after joining Melbourne Renegades for the Big Bash League (BBL) 15.

Rizwan was selected by Melbourne with the third pick in the BBL overseas draft. The wicket-keeper batter shared his thoughts in a video message on the franchise’s official page.

“Assalam-u-alaikum and good morning, Australia. It’s a great honour to join the Melbourne Renegades,” said Mohammad Rizwan.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melbourne Renegades (@renegadesbbl)

“I have always admired how they play with heart. I’m very excited to wear the No.16 jersey, meet the passionate Melbourne fans and giving my very best. Inshallah. Thank you,” Mohammad Rizwan concluded.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan’s gap in the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) from November to February provides their top cricketers a window of opportunity to participate in the BBL 15.

For the unversed, the BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the BBL 15 draft, while Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

Speedster Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

Shadab Khan, drafted by the Sydney Thunder, marks his fourth BBL stint. The leg-spinner has already represented Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes, tallying 14 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 7.50.

Hasan Ali, selected by Adelaide Strikers, will also make his BBL debut. The experienced right-arm pacer has previously featured in the LPL, CPL, and BPL.

READ: Hasan Ali opens up after Adelaide Strikers signing for BBL 15

LAHORE: The director of the national high-performance centre (NHPC) Aqib Javed has shed light on the inclusion of Pakistan’s ace batter Babar Azam in the national T20 team.

Speaking to the media in Punjab’s capital, Aqib linked Babar Azam return to the Pakistan team with performance, noting that any player who performs could return to the side.

“Whether it’s Babar or any other player, the game is open to everyone. If Babar or anyone else performs well, they will earn their place, and anyone can move up through performance,” he said.

He further added that players are smart enough to understand their places in certain formats, and they must ensure that they are well-prepared for various hurdles.

“Players are aware of which format they fit into. There are numerous challenges for them, and they must be prepared to face them.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The former coach spoke about Pakistan’s ODI captain, Mohammad Rizwan, stating that they have worked together and dismissed any conflicts between them.

Ahead of the new ICC World Test Championship (WTC)cycle, Aqib Javed announced the commencement of white and red-ball training camps.

“Coach Mike Hesson feels the need to work with this larger group. A white-ball camp will also be held in July, so white-ball cricketers are included in this larger camp.

“After the larger group, we will have separate camps for white-ball and red-ball formats. The red-ball camp will help us in the series against South Africa,” he said.

Along with camps, Aqib announced the revival of high-performance centres.

“There will be a women’s high-performance centre at the Karachi academy. The Sialkot academy will focus on Under-13 players, Faisalabad on Under-17 players, and Multan on Under-19 players. The National Cricket Academy will work with national-level players,” Aqib Javed concluded.

READ: Aqib Javed clears the air on rift with Mohammad Rizwan

LAHORE: Aqib Javed, director of the national high-performance centre (NHPC), has downplayed rumours of a disagreement with Pakistan’s ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan during his coaching stint.

While addressing the media here at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground
(LCCA) Aqib addressed the question regarding the captain’s authority in the Pakistan team.

“All around the world, decisions are made collaboratively, whether it’s our captain or any other team’s,” he said.

“I never had any disagreements with Rizwan, because you make decisions together with your skipper. I can’t recall any instance where we weren’t on the same page,” Aqib told reporters.

It is pertinent to mention that, following the hosts Pakistan team’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, reports emerged of an internal rift between Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Aqib Javed over the key selection decisions.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Addressing the question regarding Pakistan’s prospects in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Aqib highlighted the importance of process and continuation in national cricket.

“Process should continue, we halt the process in between. If you recall the early 2000s, you had numerous players because of the system. If the system continues like this, then Pakistan will have many positives in this Test championship cycle,” he said.

The former pacer also pinpointed a time frame for improvement in Pakistan cricket, stating that there will be noticeable changes in the national cricket.

“In six months, there will be visible improvement and change at every level. We will see changes in the system and among male and female cricketers.

“Just like in the past, we will bring development back into the academies. We are setting up a biomechanics lab in the academy and upgrading all facilities,” said Aqib Javed.

READ: Sam Billings hails Babar Azam as ‘king’ ahead of BBL debut